Germany’s New Year's Eve TV Shows Spark Festive Rivalry Between ARD and ZDF

On December 31, 2025, two major German public broadcasters, ARD and ZDF, are set to captivate viewers with their star-studded New Year's Eve television shows, turning the festive night into a dazzling entertainment duel.

ARD's 'Silvester-Schlagerbooom 2026 live - Die Wunderlichtershow!' will take place in Munich’s FC Bayern basketball arena, hosted by Florian Silbereisen. Following the show's surprise success last year, this year's edition promises a glitzy spectacle featuring renowned artists such as Roland Kaiser, Maite Kelly, Howard Carpendale, and iconic 1980s singer Samantha Fox. The evening will culminate with a live broadcast of the New Year's fireworks from the Brandenburg Gate.

Meanwhile, ZDF will premiere 'Willkommen 2026' in Hamburg for the first time, hosted by Andrea Kiewel and Johannes B. Kerner. The show is staged on a floating platform in HafenCity, showcasing a mix of German stars like Michael Patrick Kelly and Johannes Oerding, alongside international acts including British boy band Blue and Jenny from Ace of Base. A charity segment featuring finalists from 'The Voice Kids' adds a heartfelt element to the festivities. Both networks also offer extensive pre-midnight programming, including concerts and the Chancellor's New Year's address, to provide diverse entertainment options.

This year’s New Year's Eve broadcasts highlight Germany's vibrant television culture, showcasing glittering performances and a spirit of celebration across Munich and Hamburg. The dual broadcasts ensure that audiences across the country have an exciting array of options to ring in 2026.